By Evan Arroyo By Evan Arroyo | August 31, 2023 | Presented By,
In a world where the Barbie Movie still reigns supreme, the spotlight has also illuminated the world of Adult Barbie Collectors. These passionate individuals have always had a love for toys and have amassed valuable collections over the years. While the increased value is certainly exciting, most collectors are motivated by something deeper - the desire to hold onto the best parts of their childhood. It reminds me of Steve Carell's character in "Forty-Year-Old Virgin," who sells his collection of unopened toys for a fortune. Only in the movies, right? Maybe not.
Curiosity led me to explore this phenomenon further, leading me to the sunny city of Los Angeles, California, where I discovered New Wave Toys, a unique collectibles company. This fun business is run by an eclectic trio, with Shilo Prychak at the helm as the Founder and Toy Maker. I must admit, I'm a little jealous of that title.
Shilo's love for sixth-scale toys, such as Barbie dolls, GI Joes, and 12" Star Wars action figures, dates back to his childhood in the 1970s. His career in video games and collectibles began in the 90s when he worked as a buyer for the now-defunct Virgin Megastores, specializing in collectibles and video games. Seven years ago, he founded New Wave Toys with the vision of creating the RepliCade Amusements line - fully functional, highly detailed, replica arcade machines in 1/6 scale, reminiscent of the Coleco mini arcade cabinets he wished for as a child in the 1980s.
Since then, the RepliCade concept has evolved into a complete range of premium arcade machines in Barbie's scale. From classics like Street Fighter II and Centipede to Dragon's Lair, which even includes a replica LaserDisc player, New Wave Toys offers an immersive arcade experience. They also provide arcade accessories, including a functional USB hub disguised as a 1/6 scale Dollar Changer, carpets that glow under black light, and even diecast metal stools. All these elements work together to recreate the ambiance of an arcade on a desk, shelf, or even in Barbie's dream house.
New Wave Toys doesn't stop at arcade machines. They have expanded their premium Barbie-sized products to include replicas of classic 1980s boomboxes that not only look amazing but also sound great. Their upcoming release later this year is a replica 1980s Coca-Cola Vending Machine Mini Fridge that dispenses Barbie-sized Coke cans. Additionally, they have just announced a new line of classic BMX bikes in 1/6 scale, starting with a detailed replica of the legendary Mongoose Motomag, set to launch later this year.
If you're looking to add something truly special to your Barbie collection, satisfy your nostalgia, or surprise a little one with a mind-blowing gift, I highly recommend checking out New Wave Toys. Visit their website at NEWWAVETOYS.COM to learn more.
Photography by: Courtesy of Adult Barbie Collectors